Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

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Soft, chewy, and rich with peanut butter flavor, these cookies carry a touch of nostalgia with every bite. A treasured recipe passed down from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, these peanut butter cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Their slightly cracked surface hints at the soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior, making them irresistible to peanut butter lovers.

Baked to golden perfection, these cookies are a classic treat, perfect for pairing with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies deliver homemade comfort in the best way possible.

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Ingredients for Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar. Stir until well blended. Add the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until the dough is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating a crisscross pattern on the surface.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cookies have a lightly golden color. The cookies will still be soft when they come out of the oven but will firm up as they cool.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, enjoy with a glass of milk or store for later!

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Storage Instructions

To keep Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container—it helps retain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag or container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per cookie (approximate values based on standard ingredients)

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 60mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, but natural peanut butter tends to have a different consistency. Be sure to stir it well before using, and the dough may be slightly drier.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking?

No, this dough does not require chilling. However, if you prefer slightly thicker cookies, refrigerating for 15–20 minutes can help.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain flour. Just ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

Why do my cookies come out too dry?

Overbaking is the most common reason for dry cookies. Make sure to remove them from the oven when they are just set but still soft in the center.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients while keeping the same baking temperature and time.

How can I make the cookies chewier?

Using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar adds more moisture and chewiness to the cookies.

Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar-free alternative?

You can use sugar substitutes like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, but the texture may change slightly.

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